Triggers & Cravings
What is a trigger in relapse prevention?
Anything that creates thoughts, feelings, or urges to use.
What’s one healthy activity that can replace using?
Exercise, journaling, walking, music, art, cooking, calling a friend.
Why is having a sober support system important?
It provides accountability, encouragement, and connection.
True or False: Feeling angry or sad can be relapse warning signs.
True.
What’s a relapse prevention plan?
A written plan listing triggers, coping skills, and supports.
Name one common internal trigger.
Boredom, stress, anger, loneliness, sadness, shame.
When stress builds, what’s a way to lower risk of relapse?
Use coping plan, self-care, talk to support, remove triggers.
Who can be part of your personal support system?
Family, friends, sponsor, therapist, peers.
What’s one thinking trap that can lead to relapse?
“All-or-nothing” thinking, catastrophizing, “I already messed up.”
Why is routine important in recovery?
Structure reduces chaos and lowers exposure to triggers.
Name one common external trigger.
Certain people, places, songs, smells, payday, parties.
What’s one way to challenge a thought like “I can handle one drink”?
Remind yourself of past consequences and your recovery goals.
What should you do if someone in your circle is using?
Set boundaries, leave the situation, reach out for support.
What’s one emotion that often comes before a relapse?
Shame, guilt, loneliness, or boredom.
What’s one way to celebrate progress without substances?
Treat yourself, hobbies, social activities, journaling accomplishments.
What are the three stages of relapse?
Emotional, Mental, Physical.
When you feel like using, what’s one question to ask yourself before acting?
“What will happen after?” or “What am I really needing right now?”
What is one way to rebuild trust in recovery?
Be consistent, honest, and follow through on commitments.
What’s a mindfulness technique to handle intense feelings?
Observe thoughts, breathe, name emotions without acting on them.
What does “slip” mean in recovery terms?
A brief return to use, not a full relapse, and an opportunity to learn.
What is one strategy to manage a craving when it hits?
Delay, distract, talk to support, urge surf, deep breathe, leave the situation.
What’s the difference between distraction and avoidance?
Distraction gives space to calm down; avoidance ignores the problem.
What’s one barrier to reaching out for help?
Shame, pride, fear of judgment, not wanting to bother others.
What’s one thought that can lead to relapse?
“I can control it this time,” or “One won’t hurt.”
What’s one daily action that strengthens long-term recovery?
Gratitude list, journaling, meditation, meeting attendance, self-care.